HIKING BASICS
Does Bear Spray Work: An Inside Look at Bear Spray Effectiveness
For those who hike, hunt, camp or do other outdoor activities in wooded areas where bears are known to live, bear spray may be a necessity. Bear spray can be used to spray into a bears eyes if it gets too close to you and you need to get away. This can slow the bear down, or stop it all together, from an attack.
Having bear spray may make you more secure while you are enjoying the great outdoors. But many have wondered, does bear spray work?
The bear spray effectiveness will differ by brand, but will be sprayed into a bear’s eyes from a certain distance away and hopefully prohibit it from attacking you. Bear attacks can occur and can lead to death, which is why bear spray can be an effective tool while you are hiking or camping. It does not hurt to be safe when you are far away from any emergency response help.
You will learn that there are areas where bear spray is not legal, and also places where it is legal to carry. Many national parks allow you to bring in bear spray, but some do not. You will find out which ones do in this article. You will also learn some of the dangers of bear spray, the ingredients and more.
This article will also show you about canister sizes and the range in which the spray can reach. Being able to be further away from a bear and spraying the canister can allow you more time in which to escape a dangerous situation involving a big bear.
Remember, safety is the most important factor when you are outdoors where you may be subject to a bear attack. Being prepared is the only thing you can do. Thus, we are going to show you the features of bear spray, show you some great brands that sell bear spray, and give you the low down on the good and bad of this product.
Features to Consider
There are many features that you should take into account before you purchase just any bear spray. You will want to think about how far it will shoot, how many grams are in each burst, etc. Here is where you will find all of that information and more.
Weight
There are many brands of bear spray on the market, and they will all weight differently. Some bear sprays can come in small containers that fit on a key chain along with your car keys. Then there are some bigger cans that can fit onto a hook on your belt.
These bottles do not weigh a whole lot, but you should always consider weight when you are packing all of your gear for hiking or camping. You will also have to decide where you are going to store the bear spray if it is not going inside of your pack. It can be attached to your pack or waist for easy use.
Range
The range in which the bear spray can burst is highly important because you want to be able to deter the bear from attacking you from as far away as possible.
Each brand will have its own range in which it can reach, some can go 35 feet out, others can go further or not as far. You will want to purchase bear spray that can be shot out dozens of feet so you can survive a possible attack.
Glow in the Dark Safety
Some brands of bear spray have a glow in the dark safety, which allows you to not only find the canister in the dark, but be able to point it outwards toward a bear. This is a neat little feature that keeps you from searching around your backpack for your item in the dark.
Holster
Many bear sprays come with a holster, like regular pepper sprays. This allows you to clip the bear spray onto your keys, belt, backpack or other object so you do not lose it or spray it by accident. Many users prefer having a holster because it allows for easy access to the bear spray and for easy storage, when it does not fit into your pack.
Holsters can be of various sizes and generally come with the pepper spray. If you want a holster, but your pepper spray does not come with one, you can always order one or purchase one at a store that fits the canister.
Grams per Burst
The grams per burst refers to the amount of spray and force that will protrude from the canister. For example, you should look for something at least 44 grams per burst, upwards of 52 grams per burst. This allows for a full stream to come out of the can and straight at the bear with force. The higher the grams per bust, the better it will be.
How Does Bear Spray Work?
In short, bear spray does work. It is effective, by using crushed peppers that are put into a canister and pressurized. The active ingredient in this is oleoresin capiscum, which will cause a burning sensation in the eyes, and other symptoms that will hopefully deter an attack on you.
The lachrymators from the spray will affect the bear’s cornea and make it star tearing up and possibly become temporarily blinded from the spray. The mucus membranes are then effected and the tissues in that area will experience irritation. Once you have fired off the bear spray, the bear can experience a number of reactions including:
- Tearing of the eyes
- Burning sensation
- Runny nose
- Pain in the eyes
- Swelling
- Redness
- Soreness
- Trouble breathing
The best thing about bear spray is that it is not lethal, and will deter a bear that is going to attack you. It will disorient them, hopefully, long enough so that you can get away from them and get to safety.
Many users say that you should use a holster while carrying bear spray because that is the most effective way in avoiding spraying yourself by accident. You do not want to spray yourself by accident when you are trying to outrun a bear!
Did you know the bear spray was invented by Mark Matheny around 1992 after he was almost killed by a bear. He tried to use regular pepper spray on the bear.
After the attack, Matheny developed a pepper spray that was very useful against bears because it allowed the user to shoot from far away, was more potent than regular pepper spray, and it lasted longer.
Now we will give you some specifications on some different bear sprays. Below, you will see a table showing you some of the different brands on the market and what their specifications are.
Bear Spray Specs | Frontiersman Bear Spray | Sabre 3 in 1 Spray | Counter Assault Bear Deterrent | Guard Alaska Bear Repellent | Sabre Red USA Pepper Gel | Guard Dog Security Pepper Spray |
Weight | 9.2 oz | 0.2 oz | 10.2 oz | 9 oz | 1.8 oz | 1.8 oz |
Range | 35 ft | 10 ft | 32 ft | 20 ft | 18 ft | 15 ft |
Shelf Life | 3 years | 4 years | 3 years | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years |
Holster | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Glow in the Dark Safety | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
Amazon Stars | 4.5 of 5 | 4.5 of 5 | 4.5 of 5 | 4.5 of 5 | 4.5 of 5 | 4 of 5 |
All of these great products are effective and do their job, as you can see by the fantastic ratings they have. As you can tell, the bigger the canister, the more pressurized the spray is and thus it can spray farther. The smaller canisters, spray several feet less than the larger ones. This is something to keep in mind when you are shopping for bear spray.
Another thing to keep in mind is the shelf life of the bear spray. Hopefully, you will never have to use it after you purchase it. If you fortunately do not use it, know that it does have a shelf life that will be listed on the product’s packaging. For the most part, you can expect you bear spray to last 3 to 4 years on average.
Another thing you need to know is if using bear spray is legal where you are. It is completely legal to use in the United States, but some national parks have banned the use of it.
However, several parks recommend that you do bring the spray along with you. They know there are many bears who live in the national parks and that there is a chance of an attack.
They want humans to be able to protect themselves. States like Hawaii allow you to purchase bear spray where regular pepper spray is not legal. If you are located in Canada, it is legal to use bear spray strictly for the use of bears. If you happen to spray a person with bear spray, it is considered illegal.
Here is a table of the top 10 national parks in the United States that tells you if they allow bear spray.
Top 10 National Parks | Allow Bear Spray? |
Yosemite National Park | No |
Yellowstone National Park | Yes |
Grand Canyon National Park | No |
Zion National Park | Yes |
Acadia National Park | No |
Grand Teton National Park | Yes |
Glacier National Park | Yes |
Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Yes |
Olympic National Park | Yes |
Rocky Mountain National Park | Yes |
Never use bear spray for anything other than its intended purpose. For example, if you spray clothing, it can attract bears. It is only effective in a concentrated dosage straight to the animal. Also, you should keep the canister in a cool and dry place.
If they are left in a hot area, such as a car on a hot day, the canister can explode. Not only is this going to be harmful if you are nearby, but the clean up will be long. Plus, bear spray can be a little expensive, so you do not want to waste any of the spray if you can help it.
All bear sprays are required to be registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, and will be clearly labeled. The EPA recommends you keep the spray in an easy to reach spot that is near your sleeping area, toilet area and cooking area.
What Do Others Have to Say?
Those who have used bear spray is a great product to have along with your gear if you are hiking, camping, hunting, or in wooded areas where there are known bears. Users felt safe with the spray on them, knowing they had protection if they encountered a bear.
Users did say that if you have never used bear spray before, you should practice once or twice so that you know how to use it. Some canisters can seem a little tricky, so take the time to read the instructions and give it a test run. You do not want get caught up in a sticky situation later on. Being safe and prepared is the only way to go. Users say watching some tutorials online were helpful as well.
Those who have purchased this product state that it works better than your average pepper spray, thus giving a greater burning sensation to the bear.
Many users claimed to be animal lovers and wanted to use bear spray as a deterrent because it is non lethal, which means it will hurt the bear but only temporarily, and it will not kill it. Users see this as a last resort option, only to be used if they are in clear danger.
Some stated that bear spray can be used on other animals if need be. For example, one user stated that he used it when a couple of dogs were chasing him, trying to attack. The dogs were deterred by the bear spray and were incapacitated while the user got away safely.
There were several users who stated that they had not had to use it yet. They said that when they felt danger occur, they were able to safely escape before coming too close to a bear or dangerous animal. Those who said they never used the product also recommended that you practice before going out into the wilderness.
Of course, there were some less than satisfied users. They stated that sprays that state they can shoot 35 feet, do not actually go that far. They said the spray would go about 20 feet.
However, nobody stated that it was not powerful. In fact, one user stated that they were sprayed on accident by their child and they felt terrible after the effects of the bear spray set in; experiencing tears, burning, pain, and other symptoms associated with the spray.
Those who love the outdoors find that this product is a necessity when deep in the wilderness. Whether hiking, camping or enjoying the outdoors, bear spray can be a great addition to your gear that will keep you safe.
Pros and Cons
Next, we will go over some of the pros and cons of using bear spray. Remember, you can only use bear spray where it is legal to do so. If you are within a national park area, check with staff to see if it can be used if necessary.
Pros:
Can be shot dozens of feet away, allowing you space between yourself and the bear.
Some have glow in the dark safety, allowing you to find the spray in the dark.
Easy to tote and store
Comes in various sizes for portability
Fits in a holster on your belt
Not lethal
Works better than regular pepper spray
Expiry date is clearly shown
Product lasts for a few years
Cons:
You can accidentally spray yourself and experience burning sensations and other symptoms.
Can be hard to find in the dark without a glow in the dark safety or light to find.
May not deter an intensely aggressive bear that is on a mission
Bigger canisters can be bulky.
Smaller canisters do not spray as far as bigger ones.
Wrapping it up
As with many things, bear spray should be used with extreme caution. While bear attacks are not common, they do exist and you should be prepared if it is legal for you to do so in the area where you are. Using bear spray can save your life, by giving you ample time to get away from danger, while the bear is incapacitated.
Keep in mind, the bigger the spray canister, the farther it will shoot out, so you do not have to be real close to the bear to use it. Safety is the key when using bear spray.
HIKING BASICS
Health Benefits Of Drinking Water: Be Positively Hydrated!
We all know that humans simply cannot live without water. It is essential to our livelihood and helps the body in so many ways that we simply cannot function without it. Even our blood is 92 percent water! Staying properly hydrated allows your body to remove toxins and helps to send vitamins and nutrients, as well as oxygen, through the body to the proper places, keeping you energized. We will discuss all that and more as well as how long to digest water.
Water is helpful when losing weight, as it boosts your body’s metabolism, and it promotes healthy skin. You may feel that you are in a happier mood when you are hydrated, because water is doing its job by working with your body. You probably have a lot of questions, such as how long does water stay in your stomach? That can vary from person to person, but we will discuss more below about water and your body.
Soon, you will know all about water, how to stay hydrated, what causes dehydration and more. Let us first talk about ingesting water.
Ingesting Water
When you drink water, it travels from the mouth to pharynx and then down the esophagus. This takes about a second. Some of that water is absorbed into the stomach, some if it is absorbed into the small intestine. Then the water enters your circulatory system and then flows through the body. Did you know that if you drink 2 liters of water each day, it can turn into upwards of 2,000 ml of urine? The bladder holds up to 16 ounces of urine. For your stomach to digest water, it can take generally 45 minutes to 2 hours. However, if you have not eaten anything, and are drinking water, it can sometimes digest in just a handful of minutes.
On average, a person needs at least 64 ounces of water in their body per day. If you are highly active, you may need more water. Depending on your fitness level, you may need to increase your water intake as well. Ingesting this much water will keep toxins flushing out of the body and will keep you full so you will not want to snack. It boosts your metabolism, keeping you going through the day. The best part? Water has no sugar, no fat, and no calories!
Ways to Stay Hydrated
Besides drinking water and increasing your intake if necessary, you can find many foods also have a lot of water. Stay away from the caffeine, which acts as a diuretic. Many fruits and meats contain a high amount of water.
Some great examples of foods that will keep you hydrated include:
- Hamburger Meat
- Chicken breast (not fried)
- Soups, Broths, and Stews
- Smoothies
- Flavored Water or Sports Drinks like Powerade
- Watermelon
- Grapes
- Real Fruit Juice
- Jell O
There are many things you can do to improve your body’s hydration level.
Making small changes like replacing that soda with some water, can help your body work better and less harder.
Here are some ways to improve your hydration level:
- If you do not like plain water, you can always eat foods that are high in water, such as those mentioned above.. Some foods can contain up to 90 percent water. While you do want to drink water regularly, you can always add lemon for flavor.
- Stay away from drinks that will steal water from your body. These would be the sodas, coffees, and teas because not only are they diuretics, causing you to lose more water when you urinate. If you are already dehydrated or sick, stay away especially from apple juice and prune juice as you will lose even more water in the form of stool.
- To increase your water intake, carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go. Whether it is exercising at the gym, working in your office, or driving your car, keeping water nearby will allow you easy access to hydration.
- If you are flying, you may notice that your mouth feels dry. The air in the cabin dries out your body. Drink water before and during your flight so you do not feel this way. During this time, you should also avoid soda pop and alcohol while you are in the air.
- Stay away from any “water diets” that claim to help you lose weight fast. Drinking too much water can be dangerous. Not only that, but your body can only absorb so much water before it just goes straight to your bladder. You will not burn fat doing a water diet.
- Water is hard to digest when you are eating it with a meal. It also dilutes the digestive acids. If you do want to drink water with your dinner, try drinking sips of room temperature water. Drinking ice water will slow the digestion process.
- As we said before, drinking two glasses of water when you wake up can help jump start your body for the day. It keeps your body in balance and allows your mood to improve. This is definitely a must when it comes to hydration.
- Lay off the carbonated water as it only makes you burp. The gas from this will make you feel full in the stomach, which means you will not drink as much as you would with regular water. If you cannot live without a little fizz in your drink, you can always put some seltzer in your water.
- You can lose weight by drinking more water. It can help to burn calories and can help you feel full between meals. Water will flush the kidneys and release toxins from your body, as well as some fat. If your kidneys are in great shape, the rest of your body will improve.
What Causes Dehydration?
There are many things that can lead to dehydration, namely lack of giving yourself water for your body. If you do not ingest water, you can die within days. Some foods can cause dehydration as well.
Below are 9 foods and drinks that can dehydrate your body.
- White Asparagus: This vegetable has aspartic acid, which affects the kidneys, depleting water from your body. This will, in turn, cause you to be dehydrated.
- Alcohol: Since alcohol is a diuretic, it will make you need to use the restroom more. Thus, you are losing water from your body. Too much alcohol will cause a hangover, leading to a headache, because of lack of water. If you do drink, try to drink water as well to keep yourself from a hangover later.
- Cured Meats: Because of the high amount of protein and salt in cured meats, your body will lose water. It is recommended to drink water along with your cured meats to ensure the salt does not dry up the water within you.
- Coffee: If you drink just one or two cups of coffee, you do not have to worry about it dehydrating you. However, if you drink a lot of coffee, it dehydrates you like alcohol does because coffee is also a diuretic. Plus, the caffeine is thought to speed up the process of dehydration.
- Soy Sauce: We all like to add a little soy sauce to our rice now and then, but it does contain salt, which will soak the water up from your body. In 2013, a girl almost died from drinking a quart of it and it gave her an imbalance of electrolytes, causing dehydration. If you use it a lot, though, you should drink some water along with it.
- Bouillon Cubes: Used for making soup, bouillon cubes contain a very high amount of salt, which aids in dehydrating you. Essentially, when it is used in soup, you are drinking flavored salty water. Even though water is used in the process of making soup, you will still need additional water to stay hydrated. If you are sick, you will want the extra fluids so water can replenish your body.
- Popcorn: High in sodium, popcorn can cause you to feel very thirsty. Many like to drink a soda with their popcorn, especially in the theater. Try to replace that soda with water or flavored water to gain some fresh water for your body.
- Fried Foods: French Fries. Cheese Sticks. Fried Chicken. If it is fried, it is going to dehydrate you. Fried foods and processed foods usually have a lot of salt, which can be over your daily intake amount. Avoid these foods or eat sparingly. Always replenish yourself with some water after eating these foods.
- Sugary Drinks: Many sodas or juices contain a high amount of sugar, which are acidic as well. While they may be tasty, they are sucking water right out of your body. In turn, all of your organs are working harder to process the sugars, and your body has lost water. Cut back on the sugary drinks, by including more water within your daily diet.
What Happens to Your Body without Water?
Dehydration will occur when you do not have enough water in your body. You need to replace the water throughout the day to keep your body functioning properly.
Some signs that you are being dehydrated include:
- Dry mouth
- Feeling tired
- Headache or dizziness
- Muscle cramps
- Dry skin
- Constipation
There are more signs if you happen to be severely dehydrated, such as:
- Irritability
- Sunken eyes
- Fast heartbeat
- Fever
- Little to no urine
- Low blood pressure
There are more signs, but those are the major ones. The major causes of dehydration are: frequent urination, sweating, vomiting, diabetes, and diarrhea.
Nobody is immune to dehydration and it can affect you more, and this is especially true for certain people like:
- The elderly
- Sick people
- Infants
- Diabetics
- Alcoholics
- Those with adrenal gland disorders
- Those with cystic fibrosis
The elderly are more likely to become dehydrated because as a person ages, the thirst mechanism in the body is not as strong. Therefore, they will lose water faster. If an elderly person has dementia, they will experience dehydration and the need to stay on top of their water consumption. Infants and small children are at risk of dehydration because their little bodies go through water faster, so they need to be sure to get water regularly.
While a person can live up to 3 weeks without food, the body can only go 3 days without water. Survival experts, stick by the Rule of Threes: You can live only 3 minutes without oxygen. You have 3 hours to find shelter in a harsh weathered environment. You can live 3 days without water, and you can live 3 weeks without food. There have been cases where people have lived a week without water, but those are rare. Since the body is nearly 70 percent water, you can see how essential it is for living.
Best Time to Drink Water
Believe it or not, there are times in the day that are better for drinking water, as well as a few guidelines that will help your body get all of the water it needs.
So, when is the best time to drink water?
- Drink 2 glasses of water upon waking up. This helps to wake up your internal organs and get them ready for the day.
- Drink 1 glass of water a half hour before any meal as it helps the digestion process.
- If you are taking a bath, drink 1 glass of water to keep your blood pressure down.
- Before going to bed, it is recommended to drink 1 glass of water for heart health. This aids in preventing a heart attack or stroke.
- Another trick is, after drinking the 2 glasses when you wake up, you can brush your teeth and eat about 45 minutes later. From there, eat your breakfast and do not eat again for another 2 hours. This helps water to process through your body more efficiently.
Best Ways to Drink Water
There are three great ways to drink water and keep yourself healthy:
- Drink at a slow pace. Keeping a steady pace when drinking water will keep you more hydrated than if you were to down a whole bottle in just a few moments. This is because your intestines can only take so much water at once. If water moves too fast, you will lose it through urination, instead of it being absorbed into your body.
- Drink water with some lemon! Lemon has many health benefits as you will see below. You will feel more energetic and your body will be able to digest food better. Using a water pitcher that has an infuser will allow you to infuse your water with whatever fruit you want and the fruit will pour into your glass with the water.
- Timing is key for drinking water, as we stated above. Knowing when to drink water will allow you to better absorb it giving you more energy and releasing more toxins. Drinking water is simple if you have some next to you at all times. You can use a tumbler and fill it wherever you need to, at school, at the office, or at home. Drinking as you eat will slow down the digestion process, as some people think.
Add a Little Lemon
Lemon is not only for enhancing your water with taste, but it can do wonders for your body. Here is how:
- Lemon keeps you alert and full of energy because it contains potassium. This helps nerve function and brain function, and it reduces stress.
- Lemon boosts your immune system with Vitamin C. This helps the body heal and helps to break up phlegm if you are sick.
- A little lemon in your water will keep you not only hydrated but will not hold onto fat cells. They also absorb nutrients.
- Since lemon has Vitamin C, your skin will produce more collagen, which keeps wrinkles at bay.
- Lemons have pectin fiber, which keeps your metabolism regulated. This can help you lost weight and curb craving.
- The liver loves lemons because it helps produce enzymes for your body. The liver works better and the bile helps in digestion. It also keeps toxins flowing out of your body by urination. Plus, lemons help bowel movement regulation.
Wrapping it up
Water is our life, truly. We need to take care of our bodies by drinking an appropriate amount each day. This lessens our risks of heart attacks, strokes, and sickness. It keeps your skin beautiful and helps boost your mood. Without water, we cannot survive. Hopefully, you have learned many things about water and can improve your daily regimen. Thanks for reading!
HIKING BASICS
Romantic Camping Ideas: Genius Hacks For Camping Couples To Plan Their A Romantic Outdoor Adventure
Camping is definitely the first thing that crosses someone’s mind when it comes to a perfect Valentine day or any other romantic event, especially if you and your partner love camping and spending time in the wilderness.
Imagine the fun and romance taking the love of your life somewhere far away from the hustle, bustle and busy schedule of city struggles. It would be up to you to turn “the wild environment into the romantic one”.
In this article, we are going to take a look at some really amazing romantic camping ideas. If you are still not sure about romantic camping, then stay tuned because you might end up loving it.
How to Plan Your Romantic Camping Trip
If you don’t want your romantic getaway to turn into a disaster,there are some important things to consider before actually going on a trip.
Pick the perfect spot
It is crucial to do some research beforehand and get yourself familiar with the area. Of course, unless you are planning to go somewhere where you have already been. If not, then make sure to find a place that would suit both of you. Since you are planning a romantic trip, go somewhere where you will have privacy and peace and quiet.
How to find the perfect spot? Do a research on all of the campsites online. By using online maps you can take a look at each detail, route, and path. By doing this you will be able to make sure nothing goes wrong.
Make reservations
This is very important, especially during the peak vacation months. You do not want your camping spot to be reserved by someone else, right? Not only reservations, but you should also use the online info to find out about entrance fees and the price of the activities being performed there.
In this way you won’t be surprised in a bad way.
Camping Gear You Must Not Forget
Let’s take a look at some of the goodies that you should not forget. These goodies would come in handy during your romantic camping.
But make sure to remember that you cannot really bring all of them together, because that depends on the location.
- Since you will be sleeping in the wilderness, a comfy air mattress of high quality is a must. You might even want to go for a two-person sleeping bag so you would make sure that both of you have enough space. However, if you are camping somewhere with freezing temperatures or during the winter, you might want to buy a warmer and a waterproof sleeping bed with good insulation.
- Pillows will spice up the cozy atmosphere and allow you to snuggle.
- Make sure to bring extra blankets if you are camping in the winter or in case it suddenly gets colder. Or imagine what would happen if you get trapped in a rain or storm.
- Take your romantic event in the wilderness to a higher level by hanging string lights around the tent, or even in the bushes and trees around it. You will need a battery powered, light strings or the solar ones.
- Many couples go for candles when they want to achieve romantic mood, but remember that you must bring only the risk-free light. That is why you should consider bringing LED tea lights which can create the same Valentine effect.
- Bring a guitar or some other musical instrument that is easily carried around. You can woo your partner or get wooed. You can also sing some favorite songs together. You will be probably alone, so there won’t be any need to be embarrassed.
- Nobody would go camping without bringing a camping stove, so you can make delicious hot drinks like hot chocolate. It is not very romantic to eat canned food.
- Do not forget to bring cards and games you both love to play together.
- A cooler will keep all food and drinks fresh and cool. It is actually a must with regular camping as well.
- If you are not able to play any musical instrument, then take a portable music player with you. Make a romantic playlist of favorite songs in advance and surprise your partner! Music makes everything better.
Other Things to Consider Before You Go
Besides the camping gear that you must not forget to bring, there are also a couple of other things to consider, such as:
- Clothes: avoid smelly fabrics that quickly absorb sweat. Cotton becomes very stinky and should be avoided while synthetics, wool and Gore-Tex are great choices. Wool is warm while Gore-Tex is waterproof. Polypropylene and polyester can be used as under-layers because they do not get as stinky as cotton.
- Prepare the menu: instead of wondering about the food there, make sure to prepare the full menu before you go. Spice up the camping trip activities and surprise your partner with dishes that she or he adores. If both of you are fond of alcoholic drinks, bring a favorite beverage, but place it in a bag or thermos. Do not forget desserts!
- Do a research on wildlife: you would not want to get surprised by a bear, right? Even though it can be quite exciting to come upon a wild animal, you should know how to behave in its presence and if it is possible, to avoid if it is dangerous. You can even find about which products to bring with you in order to prevent insect bites or which places to avoid so you would not come face to face with a rat, skunk, snake, or mountain lion. While you are taking a break, inspect your body to see if there are ticks, because they must be removed immediately. That means that you should not forget an antiseptic.
Ideas for Romantic Camping Destinations
Here are some wonderful ideas for romantic destinations. Depending on where you live and your budget, you can choose at least one that would suit both you and your partner.
Campfire
In most states and countries, campfires are forbidden due to the risk of forest fires.
That is why you should be aware of the fact that you would be able to go camping only when it is colder. However, what is more romantic than sitting around a warm campfire and looking at the stars? You can also enjoy a nice dinner and create a wonderful atmosphere.
Do a research on sites and locations that allow campfires and purchase the firewood only if you are sure that you can really go. Follow the campfire policy for your own safety and everything will be good.
Beaches
Beaches are another amazing and romantic getaway. You can swim, bathe in the sun, and make a beach fire, play beach games etc. Camping at the beach is different than camping in the woods, so you will need to bring beach-specific supplies. The basics are the same, but you will also need to protect your skin from the sun and bug bites.
Track the tides regularly, stay away from the dunes during the night and stay hydrated.
Hot Springs
Have you ever tried camping near a natural hot spring? Then make sure to try it, because it is relaxing, amazing and utterly romantic! If you manage to find a hot spring, imagine soaking yourself in hot water with your partner under the starry night. You can spice it up with tea-light candles, a portable music player and drinks.
However, make sure not to use glass for your drinks, never use soap and do not leave any litter behind.
Hiking
Hiking can be another great way to spend a romantic day with your partner. Just imagine a nice weekend in the wilderness, and away from the crowds. However, make sure to bring boots of good quality because you will be on foot for hours; developing blisters is never romantic. Your shoes should provide you with ankle support and the socks should be designed for hiking. It would be a good idea to spend your day hikes in light-weight hiking shoes instead of the heavy high-cut boots. Your toes should have enough space to move around otherwise they will swell.
As for the destination, it is all up to you. With a blanket, water, enough food, and a headlamp, you can take your beloved on a romantic hike through the woods or hills. Hiking is not only great for physical health, but also mental health as well.
Paddling
Looking for an unusual romantic getaway? Then what about canoeing, rafting or kayaking? Take your boyfriend or girlfriend on a paddling journey in which both of you will have fun! This is a great activity because it can lead you to an isolated campsite where you can take a break and enjoy the view with your partner. You do not really to buy a boat or canoe, you can simply rent one, but you have to be experienced in peddling it. Do not go paddling if you have never done it before because you can endanger not only yourself but your partner as well!
For this kind of adventure you need drinking water, food, sun protection, waterproof footwear and life-jacket. Make sure to get familiar with the area and its rapids before you go so you can avoid unexpected danger. Also, do not only peddle but take mini breaks to show your partner the area and the landscape. It will be an unforgettable adventure!
Safety
When you have finally chosen a destination, make sure to be aware of possible dangers and give your best to prevent them. It all depends on your experience, and if you are the one planning the romantic getaway, then you are responsible for your partner’s life as well.
Let’s take a look at some safety measures:
- Sunburn can be prevented by wearing hats, sunglasses and applying lots of sunscreen. It does not matter where you are, you can get a sunburn at high elevations during freezing temperatures just as same as at the beach. However, if you do happen to sunburn your skin, apply lots of gel and seek medical attention if the burns turn into blisters.
- Blisters are mostly caused by bad footwear, especially during hiking. Make sure to wear socks of high quality and to keep them dry. If your feet hurt, then make a break and check the blister. Apply a padding if it is not broken; however, if it has already turned into an open wound, then clean it with soap and water and cover it with a hydrogel.
- Sprains are serious injuries that can happen anywhere. People who have sprained their wrists, knees or ankles should rest, then apply ice to the sprain to prevent swelling. After that a bandage should be used and the sprained joins kept elevated above the heart level.
- Make sure to always have a First Aid Kit with you, whenever and wherever you go.
Final Thoughts on This Topic
To sum up, we have covered the most important things regarding romantic camping ideas. We have also mentioned some great destinations that might spark your interest and positively surprise your partner. Depending on your budget and location, you can explore camping areas online by using maps and official camping sites. In that way you will be informed about the all possible fees and taxes that might come along your way.
In order to turn camping into a romantic trip, prepare everything beforehand and make sure to remember your partner’s taste and preference. After that it is up to you to create a romantic location and transform it from the wild one into a truly Valentine setting.
Additionally, do not forget that it is better to be safe than sorry. If you are not experienced when it comes to hiking, paddling or camping in general, do not venture into long and far-away journeys that might endanger both you and your partner. Stick to a place where you can ask for help in case you need it.
HIKING BASICS
Great Outdoor Tips For Couples: Camping For Two!
Camping is definitely the first thing that crosses someone’s mind when it comes to a perfect Valentine day or any other romantic event, especially if you and your partner love camping and spending time in the wilderness.
Imagine the fun and romance taking the love of your life somewhere far away from the hustle, bustle and busy schedule of city struggles. It would be up to you to turn “the wild environment into the romantic one”.
In this article, we are going to take a look at some really amazing romantic camping ideas. If you are still not sure about romantic camping, then stay tuned because you might end up loving it.
How to Plan Your Romantic Camping Trip
If you don’t want your romantic getaway to turn into a disaster,there are some important things to consider before actually going on a trip.
Pick the perfect spot
It is crucial to do some research beforehand and get yourself familiar with the area. Of course, unless you are planning to go somewhere where you have already been. If not, then make sure to find a place that would suit both of you. Since you are planning a romantic trip, go somewhere where you will have privacy and peace and quiet.
How to find the perfect spot? Do a research on all of the campsites online. By using online maps you can take a look at each detail, route, and path. By doing this you will be able to make sure nothing goes wrong.
Make reservations
This is very important, especially during the peak vacation months. You do not want your camping spot to be reserved by someone else, right? Not only reservations, but you should also use the online info to find out about entrance fees and the price of the activities being performed there.
In this way you won’t be surprised in a bad way.
Camping Gear You Must Not Forget
Let’s take a look at some of the goodies that you should not forget. These goodies would come in handy during your romantic camping.
But make sure to remember that you cannot really bring all of them together, because that depends on the location.
- Since you will be sleeping in the wilderness, a comfy air mattress of high quality is a must. You might even want to go for a two-person sleeping bag so you would make sure that both of you have enough space. However, if you are camping somewhere with freezing temperatures or during the winter, you might want to buy a warmer and a waterproof sleeping bed with good insulation.
- Pillows will spice up the cozy atmosphere and allow you to snuggle.
- Make sure to bring extra blankets if you are camping in the winter or in case it suddenly gets colder. Or imagine what would happen if you get trapped in a rain or storm.
- Take your romantic event in the wilderness to a higher level by hanging string lights around the tent, or even in the bushes and trees around it. You will need a battery powered, light strings or the solar ones.
- Many couples go for candles when they want to achieve romantic mood, but remember that you must bring only the risk-free light. That is why you should consider bringing LED tea lights which can create the same Valentine effect.
- Bring a guitar or some other musical instrument that is easily carried around. You can woo your partner or get wooed. You can also sing some favorite songs together. You will be probably alone, so there won’t be any need to be embarrassed.
- Nobody would go camping without bringing a camping stove, so you can make delicious hot drinks like hot chocolate. It is not very romantic to eat canned food.
- Do not forget to bring cards and games you both love to play together.
- A cooler will keep all food and drinks fresh and cool. It is actually a must with regular camping as well.
- If you are not able to play any musical instrument, then take a portable music player with you. Make a romantic playlist of favorite songs in advance and surprise your partner! Music makes everything better.
Other Things to Consider Before You Go
Besides the camping gear that you must not forget to bring, there are also a couple of other things to consider, such as:
- Clothes: avoid smelly fabrics that quickly absorb sweat. Cotton becomes very stinky and should be avoided while synthetics, wool and Gore-Tex are great choices. Wool is warm while Gore-Tex is waterproof. Polypropylene and polyester can be used as under-layers because they do not get as stinky as cotton.
- Prepare the menu: instead of wondering about the food there, make sure to prepare the full menu before you go. Spice up the camping trip activities and surprise your partner with dishes that she or he adores. If both of you are fond of alcoholic drinks, bring a favorite beverage, but place it in a bag or thermos. Do not forget desserts!
- Do a research on wildlife: you would not want to get surprised by a bear, right? Even though it can be quite exciting to come upon a wild animal, you should know how to behave in its presence and if it is possible, to avoid if it is dangerous. You can even find about which products to bring with you in order to prevent insect bites or which places to avoid so you would not come face to face with a rat, skunk, snake, or mountain lion. While you are taking a break, inspect your body to see if there are ticks, because they must be removed immediately. That means that you should not forget an antiseptic.
Ideas for Romantic Camping Destinations
Here are some wonderful ideas for romantic destinations. Depending on where you live and your budget, you can choose at least one that would suit both you and your partner.
Campfire
In most states and countries, campfires are forbidden due to the risk of forest fires.
That is why you should be aware of the fact that you would be able to go camping only when it is colder. However, what is more romantic than sitting around a warm campfire and looking at the stars? You can also enjoy a nice dinner and create a wonderful atmosphere.
Do a research on sites and locations that allow campfires and purchase the firewood only if you are sure that you can really go. Follow the campfire policy for your own safety and everything will be good.
Beaches
Beaches are another amazing and romantic getaway. You can swim, bathe in the sun, and make a beach fire, play beach games etc. Camping at the beach is different than camping in the woods, so you will need to bring beach-specific supplies. The basics are the same, but you will also need to protect your skin from the sun and bug bites.
Track the tides regularly, stay away from the dunes during the night and stay hydrated.
Hot Springs
Have you ever tried camping near a natural hot spring? Then make sure to try it, because it is relaxing, amazing and utterly romantic! If you manage to find a hot spring, imagine soaking yourself in hot water with your partner under the starry night. You can spice it up with tea-light candles, a portable music player and drinks.
However, make sure not to use glass for your drinks, never use soap and do not leave any litter behind.
Hiking
Hiking can be another great way to spend a romantic day with your partner. Just imagine a nice weekend in the wilderness, and away from the crowds. However, make sure to bring boots of good quality because you will be on foot for hours; developing blisters is never romantic. Your shoes should provide you with ankle support and the socks should be designed for hiking. It would be a good idea to spend your day hikes in light-weight hiking shoes instead of the heavy high-cut boots. Your toes should have enough space to move around otherwise they will swell.
As for the destination, it is all up to you. With a blanket, water, enough food, and a headlamp, you can take your beloved on a romantic hike through the woods or hills. Hiking is not only great for physical health, but also mental health as well.
Paddling
Looking for an unusual romantic getaway? Then what about canoeing, rafting or kayaking? Take your boyfriend or girlfriend on a paddling journey in which both of you will have fun! This is a great activity because it can lead you to an isolated campsite where you can take a break and enjoy the view with your partner. You do not really to buy a boat or canoe, you can simply rent one, but you have to be experienced in peddling it. Do not go paddling if you have never done it before because you can endanger not only yourself but your partner as well!
For this kind of adventure you need drinking water, food, sun protection, waterproof footwear and life-jacket. Make sure to get familiar with the area and its rapids before you go so you can avoid unexpected danger. Also, do not only peddle but take mini breaks to show your partner the area and the landscape. It will be an unforgettable adventure!
Safety
When you have finally chosen a destination, make sure to be aware of possible dangers and give your best to prevent them. It all depends on your experience, and if you are the one planning the romantic getaway, then you are responsible for your partner’s life as well.
Let’s take a look at some safety measures:
- Sunburn can be prevented by wearing hats, sunglasses and applying lots of sunscreen. It does not matter where you are, you can get a sunburn at high elevations during freezing temperatures just as same as at the beach. However, if you do happen to sunburn your skin, apply lots of gel and seek medical attention if the burns turn into blisters.
- Blisters are mostly caused by bad footwear, especially during hiking. Make sure to wear socks of high quality and to keep them dry. If your feet hurt, then make a break and check the blister. Apply a padding if it is not broken; however, if it has already turned into an open wound, then clean it with soap and water and cover it with a hydrogel.
- Sprains are serious injuries that can happen anywhere. People who have sprained their wrists, knees or ankles should rest, then apply ice to the sprain to prevent swelling. After that a bandage should be used and the sprained joins kept elevated above the heart level.
- Make sure to always have a First Aid Kit with you, whenever and wherever you go.
Final Thoughts on This Topic
To sum up, we have covered the most important things regarding romantic camping ideas. We have also mentioned some great destinations that might spark your interest and positively surprise your partner. Depending on your budget and location, you can explore camping areas online by using maps and official camping sites. In that way you will be informed about the all possible fees and taxes that might come along your way.
In order to turn camping into a romantic trip, prepare everything beforehand and make sure to remember your partner’s taste and preference. After that it is up to you to create a romantic location and transform it from the wild one into a truly Valentine setting.
Additionally, do not forget that it is better to be safe than sorry. If you are not experienced when it comes to hiking, paddling or camping in general, do not venture into long and far-away journeys that might endanger both you and your partner. Stick to a place where you can ask for help in case you need it.
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